Two exhibitions currently on in the city celebrate craft skills in a range of ethereal cottons and interesting artefacts.
The saris exhibition as the Central Cottage Industries Emporium is a mélange of weaves, colours, and prints. Lightweight, the saris feature the fascinating repertoire of the country’s block-printing techniques such as Dabu mud-resist, Bagru and the incomparable Ajrakh in vegetable colours. Bandhini saris from Gujarat, Andhra’s Mangalgiris, richly woven Gadhwals and Rajasthan’s Kotas are other cotton saris on offer at the exhibition. Minimally embroidered Kanthas, West Bengal’s Tanghail cottons, Dhakais, Maheswaris, Chanderis, and Bagh prints come in charming motifs. The AP Hastakala Exhibition at Sankara Hall has an interesting array of teakwood Raja Rani toys and wood panels. Divan sets come embroidered with dancing women while bedspreads and cushions combine ikat, hand-block prints and embroidery. Check out the Kantha stitches on saris and salwar suits. For the young at heart, there are glittering lac bangles in intriguing designs, prettiest clay jewellery and exquisite jewellery boxes covered with zari, lace etc.
(The Cottage Industries Emporium is situated at Temple Towers, 672, Anna Salai, Nandanam, and Sankara Hall on TTK Road, Teynampet. Both the exhibitions are on till May 10)
